Approximately
10% of patients will develop haze of a membrane
behind the intraocular lens (IOL) implant
following cataract surgery, which results
in diminished vision. The vision may be blurred,
hazy, or is associated with significant glare
and loss of visual clarity. This condition,
known as posterior capsule opacity, is sometimes
referred to as secondary cataract. Cataracts,
however, never recur following cataract surgery.
The condition of posterior capsule opacity
is not preventable, but fortunately, is treatable
and nearly always restores or improves vision.
Posterior capsule opacity may be treated
with an in-office or outpatient minor laser
procedure known as a YAG laser capsulotomy.
In this procedure, a laser is used to remove
the hazy capsule situated behind the IOL
implant. This usually requires dilating eye
drops prior to the procedure. The laser treatment
takes only a few minutes, is entirely painless,
and is not associated with any post-operative
discomfort. Anti-inflammatory eye drops are
used for several days following the procedure.
Following a YAG laser capsulotomy procedure,
patients may resume normal activities immediately.
Most patients notice their vision improving
within a day following the procedure. Although
there is more than a 99% chance of success
with no problems, retinal detachment or
retinal thickening may rarely occur. As
with any eye procedure, patients should
contact Eye Institute (09-5222125)
promptly if vision worsens or fails to
improve. Patients should anticipate some
floaters following this procedure, however,
these will likely resolve within a few
weeks time.
To make
an appointment, or to find out more
information, fill out our enquiry
form, or contact Eye
Institute's friendly team on free phone
0800 393 527.
Affiliated provider benefit to Cataract Patients
- no need for prior approval
- no money up front for surgery
- Southern Cross pays us directly
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